This month-long training, initiated by AB InBev and implemented across various African markets, aims to enhance entrepreneurial capabilities, encourage financial inclusion, and foster sustainable growth among its extensive network of retailers. IBPLC has launched the program in five major Nigerian cities: Port Harcourt, Onitsha, Ilesha, Lagos, and Sagamu, with approximately 800 retailers trained so far, and a target of reaching 1,000 retailers by the end of 2024.
The program is centered around three key pillars: Inclusion, Education, and Growth, offering customized business training, coaching, and mentorship to retailers. By investing in education, the initiative aims to stimulate economic growth by equipping individuals with essential skills to innovate, compete, and succeed in a rapidly evolving market.
Following its successful launch in 2023, during which approximately 150 local retailers received training, GRIT has broadened its initiative to assist additional retail partners throughout Nigeria and six other African nations. The training program is designed for retail partners, as well as bars operated by men, women, and youth aged 18 and older.
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| L-R: National Sales Director, International Breweries PLC, (IBPLC), Nicholas Kade; Corporate Affairs & Regulatory Director, IBPLC, Temitope Oguntokun; Partner, 3N Bar, Shomolu, Daye Young, and Managing Director, IBPLC, Carlos Coutino, at 2024 IBPLC’s Retailers Development Programme in Lagos. |
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| L-R: Ifeoma Sunday, Manager, Ifeoma Joint, Abeokuta, Ogun State; Olawunmi; Oladapo Soneye, Corporate Affairs Manager, International Breweries Plc, Gateway Plant & Femi Adio, Manager, Delight Cool Spot, Abeokuta, Ogun State at 2024 IBPLC’s Retailers Development Programme in Ogun State. |
In his address, Carlos Coutino, Managing Director of International Breweries Plc, emphasized that successful small businesses are essential to local communities and economies, significantly contributing to economic growth by creating jobs, delivering essential services, and fostering innovation.
He stated, “We are committed to driving meaningful change through our GRIT program, now in its second year. With GRIT, we equip our retailers with essential skills training, mentorship, opportunities for growth, and access to vital resources such as digital tools, financing, and other necessary inputs.”
He further added, “To achieve entrepreneurial development, business expansion, and sustainability for our retail partners, it requires not only GRIT and determination but also ensures that International Breweries continues to foster a future filled with more opportunities for its stakeholders.”
The 2024 iteration of the Retailer Development Programme has introduced a hybrid training approach, allowing participants the option of in-person or virtual learning. This innovation has made it possible for a greater number of retailers to engage with the program, irrespective of their location or availability. The virtual training component is facilitated through a cutting-edge mobile application, designed to be compatible with the latest mobile technologies, ensuring easy access to business insights and educational resources.
Corporate Affairs & Regulatory Director at IBPLC, Temitope Oguntokun, emphasized the vital role of retailers in the sustainability of IBPLC and expressed gratitude for their dedication to enhancing both the brand and their individual enterprises. "Entrepreneurship, for us, involves empowering and elevating small and medium-sized businesses throughout our value chain, including farmers, transporters, suppliers, local retailers, and more. By strengthening our retailers, we not only support their communities but also contribute to sustainable business growth nationwide. The term GRIT reflects our commitment to collaborating with our stakeholders to achieve mutual value."
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| L-R: Oluwatosin Sanni, Project Manager, Advapro Ltd; Joy Nwankwo, Manager, Ultimate Bar, Onitsha, Anambra State; Okechukwu Nzeribe, Corporate Affairs Manager, International Breweries PLC, Onitsha, at 2024 IBPLC’s Retailers Development Programme in Onitsha, Anambra State. |
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| L-R: Martins Owoyokun, Corporate Affairs Officer, International Breweries Plc, Ilesa, Osun State & Bukola Adedeji, Manager, Lady B Cool Spot, Ilesa, Osun State, at 2024 IBPLC’s Retailers Development Programme in Onitsha, Anambra State. |
During the session, Nicholas Kade, National Sales Director of IBPLC, recognized the perseverance of retailers in managing their businesses amid a challenging economic landscape. "We understand that the growth of our retailers directly correlates with our own success. Today's training is designed to equip you with the tools necessary for your business to flourish, which in turn will benefit us all as we collectively contribute to the socio-economic advancement of the country."
Participants engaged in four training modules covering essential topics such as financial management, inventory control, business expansion, and responsible beer stewardship, aimed at enhancing their business acumen.
Samuel Onyeulor, General Manager of Retta Park Hotel in Okota, Lagos, shared his motivation for attending the program, stating his eagerness to acquire new skills and insights. "This training has introduced me to numerous new perspectives, allowing me to learn, unlearn, and relearn. It has also created a valuable opportunity for networking, sharing experiences, and exchanging best practices in business," Onyeulor remarked.
Another participant, Pretty Joseph, the CEO of ShineOn Bar in Ikeja, characterized the program as "incredible." She stated, "I discovered how to effectively manage my business to maintain profitability by consistently keeping sufficient stock of my products and ensuring that my customers are always satisfied with my services."
In addition to offering practical business training, the RDP program included workshops focused on financial literacy, digital skills, and leadership, empowering retailers to expand their businesses and adjust to evolving market dynamics.